You are chosen

All authority over the world and its power centers has been given to Jesus Christ. He, in turn, sends us to bring His power and love into the world. He prayed and even now continues to pray, “‘Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.’” (Matthew 6:10, KJV)

The Great Commission is 100% based on the authority of Jesus. We live, breathe, and change lives based on the delegated authority of Jesus Christ. 

The Apostle Paul said, “For in him we live and move and have our being…” (Acts 17:28, NIV). And Peter said, “‘Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.’” (Acts 3:6, NKJV)

The disciples had no authority in their own merit. It was given to them in Luke 9:1-2: “When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.” (NIV)

You may feel inadequate to fulfill the Great Commission, but God will make you more than adequate. You may have struggled with addictions and failure, but God can qualify you.

You are the one God has chosen. You are the teammate He has chosen to play for His team. He enlisted you in His army. “As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to Him— you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 2:4-5, NIV) Wow! This is amazing. 

Almost twenty years ago, a man came up to me after early morning prayer and said, “You don’t have to be afraid, Pastor.” I was surprised by his words and told him I wasn’t afraid. But he responded in a way that launched us on a wild, 20-year journey together. He said, “I’m a third degree black belt, and I’ll protect you.” He’s traveled with me around the world. He’s saved my life more than once, and now he has access to presidents of nations. Many people are jealous of his achievements because he does not have a college degree or a fancy Christian pedigree. 

My friend Pasqual has been qualified by obedience, chiseled by adversity, and empowered by the Holy Spirit. He’s become known as the janitor who is changing nations.

I can promise you God will do great things through you like He is doing through my friend Pasqual because you’re a miracle.